Hadith #10890

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all the worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure and noble Ahl al-Bayt, and his righteous companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states:

إنَّما الوَرَعُ اَلتَّطَهُّرُ عَنِ المَعاصي۔

This can be translated as:

Piety is nothing but the purification of oneself from sins.

Let us delve into the deeper meaning of this enlightening Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) in light of the Quran. The word (warā') "وَرَعُ" refers to piety or righteousness, while (at-taṭahhur) "التَّطَهُّرُ" means purification. And (al-ma'āṣī) "الْمَعَاصِي" signifies sins or disobedience to Allah.

The Quran emphasizes the importance of purifying oneself from sins in numerous verses. In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:222), Allah says,

Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves.

This verse highlights the significance of seeking forgiveness and purifying oneself from sins as an act of piety that is beloved to Allah.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-A'raf (7:33), Allah commands Prophet Musa (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) to tell his people,

And say, 'My Lord, cause me to enter a sound entrance and to exit a sound exit and grant me from Yourself a supporting authority.'

This verse emphasizes the need for spiritual purification and seeking Allah's guidance and support in order to lead a righteous life.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) hadith highlights the essence of piety, which lies in purifying oneself from sins. Piety is not merely limited to performing outward acts of worship, but it encompasses a comprehensive purification of the heart, mind, and soul from all forms of disobedience to Allah.

Purification from sins requires a conscious effort to abstain from sinful actions and to constantly seek forgiveness and repentance. It involves striving to align one's thoughts, intentions, and actions with the teachings of Islam. This purification process is a continuous journey that requires self-reflection, self-discipline, and self-restraint.

When a Muslim purifies themselves from sins, they develop a heightened awareness of Allah's presence in their lives. They become more conscious of their actions and strive to live a life that is pleasing to Allah. This purification leads to a transformation of the individual's character, as they become more inclined towards righteousness and goodness.

The consequences of purifying oneself from sins are manifold. Firstly, it brings about a sense of inner peace and tranquility, as the individual is freed from the burden of guilt and remorse. Secondly, it strengthens the relationship between the individual and Allah, as they strive to please Him and seek His forgiveness. Thirdly, it enables the individual to become a positive influence on others, as their purified character serves as a source of inspiration and guidance.

Reflecting on Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) impactful Hadith, we are reminded of the importance of constantly striving to purify ourselves from sins. This purification process is not limited to a specific time or place but is a lifelong journey of self-improvement and spiritual growth. It requires sincere intention, self-discipline, and a deep understanding of the teachings of Islam.

As Muslims, let us take this hadith to heart and make a conscious effort to purify ourselves from sins. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) grant us the strength and guidance to continuously purify ourselves and attain true piety. May we strive to live a life that is pleasing to Him and seek His forgiveness whenever we fall short. May our purification from sins lead us to a state of righteousness and ultimately, to the eternal bliss of Paradise.